At least four people were killed and about seven others injured on Thursday night when unknown gunmen stormed Oko community, near the Federal Polytechnic in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State. The victims are suspected to be students of the institution.
Although the exact motive for the attack remains uncertain, local sources believe it may be connected to cult-related violence. The attackers reportedly struck without provocation, opening fire in a crowded area and triggering widespread panic among students and residents.
An eyewitness recounted the chilling incident: “It happened late Thursday evening. The armed men arrived suddenly near the polytechnic and began shooting indiscriminately.
“Four students were confirmed dead on the spot, while others were rushed to nearby hospitals in critical condition. Two individuals were also abducted during the chaos, and their whereabouts are still unknown.”
A graphic video circulating online shows a male and female student lying in pools of blood, struggling to breathe—believed to have been recorded at a hospital shortly after the attack.
Confirming the incident on Friday, the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, described it as a suspected cult-related shooting. He said security operatives have now taken control of the area.
“Police personnel led by the Aguata Area Commander, supported by a joint security task force comprising the Army, Navy, Civil Defence, and local vigilantes, responded swiftly to the scene. The incident occurred around 8:40 pm at Total Junction and Tipper Junction in Oko,” Ikenga stated.
He added that two victims were rescued, including a female student who is currently receiving treatment at a hospital. “Sadly, two lives were lost, and two persons were reportedly abducted. According to eyewitnesses, the attackers arrived on a motorcycle and a black Lexus 350 SUV without number plates, and began shooting randomly at Total Junction. The abductions took place at nearby Tipper Junction before the assailants fled.”
The police have urged residents to remain calm, assuring that investigations are ongoing and that they are working with eyewitnesses and leads from the scene to identify and apprehend those responsible.
As of now, security presence remains heavy in the area while the community reels from the shock of the violent incident.